A group of local teens is using their artistic creativity and sense of community to bring smiles to people on the Victoria Hospice Inpatient Unit.
This spring, Claremont Secondary students Aylia Campbell and Victoria Sevcenco arrived on the Unit with literally dozens of handmade cards for patients. The cards were created by Grade 9 members of the Claremont Pursuit of Excellence Program (PEP), for the express purpose of bringing comfort to those reaching the end of their lives.
Having been through PEP themselves, Aylia and Victoria are now acting as mentors for this initiative. They meet early before school begins and show their protegees different creative techniques they have learned over the years.
The cards are meant to serve as a reminder that everyone has value and that it’s possible for a stranger to share a bright light and a heartfelt moment. “It allows the students to blend the passion of art and creativity with something positive for the community and bring happiness,” says Aylia.
PEP at Claremont strives to challenge each child to reach his or her maximum potential. The program is designed to allow students to set their own level of aspiration and expand their skills for a more effective transition into high school and beyond.
Thanks to Aylia and Victoria and all the Claremont students for sharing their creativity in such a caring way!